The EIU view

In 2019-20 the president, Julius Maada Bio, and his party will remain in power. Although he presides over an inclusive government, the legislative landscape will be challenging given that the opposition dominates the parliament. Fiscal policy will focus on consolidation in 2019-20 as the government implements reforms advocated by the IMF. Persistent imbalances on the external account and high inflation will pose macroeconomic challenges.

Government reduces fuel prices
The reduction of fuel prices underscores our expectation of a high risk of fiscal slippages, given elevated levels of spending on the public-sector wage bill and social programmes.

President announces new ministers
Julius Maada Bio has included some opposition members in his cabinet. An inclusive government will ensure political stability, although parliamentary hurdles are likely.

English (official), Krio (an English-oriented creole), Mende, Temne and other local languages

MEASURES:

Metric system

CURRENCY:

Leone (Le)=100 cents

TIME:

GMT

PUBLIC HOLIDAYS:

January 1st; May 1st; August 9th (National Day); December 25th; the principal Islamic holidays¡ªEid al-Fitr, Eid al-Adha (Tabaski) and Mouloud (the Prophet Mohammed's birthday)¡ªare based on the lunar calendar and vary from year to year